What to Expect When Having Gynecomastia Surgery

Anesthesia: General. You will sleep through the entire procedure.

Location of Operation: Hospital or outpatient surgery center.

Length of Surgery: Normally 1 hour.

Length of Stay: This is done on an outpatient basis.

Discomfort: Minimal and controlled with pain medication.

Swelling and Bruising: Most postoperative bruising will resolve in 10-14 days. Swelling can take up to 3-6 months to completely resolve.

Drains: No drains are used for standard liposuction, but are sometimes used after ultrasonic upon the doctor’s discretion.

Bandages: The initial garment is to be worn day and night for 2 weeks. It is designed to help in contouring the tissues and in aiding the shrinkage of the skin. After the first 2 week period, a second garment is used and worn only during the day. This garment is less supportive and should be worn for 2-4 weeks.

Stitches: Small skin incisions heal quickly and are closed with one or two small absorbable sutures.

Work: We recommend 2-3 days from work for most patients, but this varies depending on the extent of liposuction, other medical issues, age, and type of work performed.

Exercise: Light activities can be resumed in 1 week and more strenuous exercise can resume in 2-3 weeks as long as a lycra or spandex-type garment is worn. By 6 weeks, all activities can be resumed.

Final Result: Usually seen after 6 months. The tissues need time to reshape and soften as the skin continues to shrink and tighten.

Special Care: Massage is recommended using either manual massage or a small hand-held massager. This is done once the bruising has resolved and helps in softening and contouring the tissues. Massage is partially helpful the first 3 months after surgery.

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